Please note:
This calculator is useful in providing approximate weights for species, but the user
should be careful in how the product is used. Wood varies considerably in weight per
constant volume (density) on a regional level and at the local level. That is, the weight
of a piece of wood from one area or tree will differ from the same species in the another
area. The growth rate is the most significant factor in determining density, with slower
growing trees having a higher density (therefore greater weight), than faster growing
trees. This is due to the late wood cells (the dark ring seen when a tree is cut) having
thicker walls and being closer together than the early wood (lighter wood between the
rings).
Where the board is cut from the tree is another factor, the heartwood portion of the tree
(the center portion, often characterized by a change in colour) is composed of dead cells
and will be lighter than the sap wood, where the cells are still living. Wood that is cut
from the portion of the stem that still has live branches on it will be lighter due to
hormones produced by the foliage.
In different areas, genetics will play a factor in wood density, along with the growing
site (moisture and nutrient characteristics of the soil). Where the tree grows on the
hillside, eg south facing versus north facing slope, high elevation versus low elevation,
areas of heavy snowpack versus light snowpack, constant winds versus sheltered locations
all have an influence on the density of wood.
